Messi: "I'm not fully fit"

The mixed-zone at the Estadio Monumental was host to some intriguing statements on Friday night, including that of Leo Messi - who watched the first hour of Argentina's game from the bench.

"I'm not fully fit. I haven't been playing much football and after two months out injured, we (Messi and Alejandro Sabella) decided that the best thing was to come on in the second half".

"I needed playing-time. Obviously I would have liked to win. I think we were better than Colombia, but we came up against a great side and it wasn't to be," the Argentina number 10 said.

"I was ok, but I didn't know how my leg was going to respond. Training is not the same as playing in a match and making movements without thinking about it. I've recovered from the injury, but I don't know if I'll start against Ecuador," he added.

Argentina manager Alejandro Sabella later praised the Barcelona star: "Messi proved his love for his country".

Kun Agüero "We'll take the point, but we always want to win. It wasn't possible. Colombia is a very strong opponent. The sending-offs made the game tight. Now we have to remain calm and focus on the Ecuador game," the striker said. When asked about Messi, Agüero said: "You can tell when Leo is not on the pitch. We have to try to play well without him".

Javier Mascherano "We know we could have won, as we had the better chances. We missed Messi. That's why he's the best in the world," the midfielder said.